Group Classes & Ensembles

This class is designed for musicians that would like to learn about the basics of Cuban music and Salsa music. We will discuss rhythms that are key to Afro-Cuban music, including how clave and percussion parts relate to each instrumentÕs role, and improvisation within the style. We will also focus on learning the form of Cuban dance music, the historical context, and how different dances influence and fit into the musical form. Students will learn the key rhythms of Cuban danz—n, cha-cha-ch‡, and son montuno as well as how to approach improvisation in Cuban music. Instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome. Ages: Adults, older teens (high school students) Instruments: Voice, woodwinds, brass, violin, cello, bass, piano, and percussion (bongo, congas, guiro, claves, and timbales) Musical Styles: Cha-cha-ch‡, danz—n, guaracha, bolero, son, songo, timba, salsa, and other Afro-Cuban music Prerequisites: Proficiency on an instrument, reading skills, and interest in Latin music. Admission with instructorÕs consent. Instructor: Tregar OttonStudents enrolled in private lessons at CMC receive a discount on class tuition. Please read CMC's registration policies before enrolling.Online signup for this class is unavailable. Submit a Prerequisite Form to get started!

Learn, perform, and hone your skills playing all styles of popular Cuban and Cuban-inspired dance music, including cha-cha-ch‡,Ê danz—n, guaracha, songo, timba, bolero, son-montuno, salsa, and other Afro-Cuban popular dance music. Charanga, or Tipica ensembles, ensembles incorporate violin and flute (usually instead of brass instruments, although trumpets and trombones are often used in modern charanga), along with bass, piano, vocals, and Afro-Cuban percussion. In this advanced class, students will learn and perform modern and traditional charanga music, learn about Cuban music history in a performance-focused environment, much like professional band rehearsals. Ages: Adults, older teens (high school students) Instruments: Voice, woodwinds, brass, violin, cello, bass, piano, and percussion (bongo, congas, guiro, claves, and timbales) Musical Styles: Cuban salsa, charanga, and other Afro-Cuban music Prerequisites: Proficiency on an instrument, reading skills, and interest in Latin music. Prior participation in CMC's Cuban Fundamentals class, or performance with an Afro-Cuban music group is a prerequisite for this class. Admission with instructorÕs consent. Instructor: Tregar OttonStudents enrolled in private lessons at CMC receive a discount on class tuition. Please read CMC's registration policies before enrolling.Online signup for this class is unavailable. Submit a Prerequisite Form to get started!